BLAENAU Gwent Council will find itself facing a council tax headache after the Government abolishes a benefit scheme.

From April 1, the national council tax benefit scheme will be no more and instead people will have to rely on a Welsh Government version called the council tax reduction scheme.

However, this scheme will only cover up to 90% of the funding needed – meaning those claiming will most likely need to pay something towards their council tax bill from April 2013.

Blaenau Gwent Council is consulting on how they plan to operate the new council tax reduction scheme and this consultation ends on January 11.

They want your views on a number of issues, but the council is only able to decide how the scheme will be operated, not whether it should go ahead.

Those affected by the changes should receive letters by December 14.

Coun Barrie Sutton, executive member for resources, said: “Local councils in Wales will have to adopt new council tax benefit schemes by the end of January 2013 and are legally required to begin consultation immediately.

“We are working with partners, including voluntary sector organisations, to provide as much support and guidance as we can to everyone affected.”

For further information about the benefit scheme consultation go to www.blaenau-gwent.gov.uk or phone the council’s benefits section on 01495 356075.